Getting Defensive About Triggers

by
posted on May 19, 2014
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
sinews.jpg (66)

When crafting a firearm for someone else, personal preference should steer the project, rather than dictate it. Triggers are an excellent example of this. For years, my go-to choice for a double-action revolver was to have my gunsmith modify a revolver's trigger with what's commonly referred to a a combat contour, where the sides of the wheelgun's "bang switch" are beveled and the face is polished smooth, as opposed to a serrated trigger, which can abrade your finger and cause discomfort.

Image
An alternative to a popular combat-contour, the wide face of the author's Model 36 offers ample leverage and purchase for a consistent double-action pull.

Thankfully, the face of my Model 63's factory trigger wasn't serrated, but it was wider than I was used to. The more I studied it, the more it seemed to be a combat contour candidate, that is until I reminded myself that the pistol wasn't for me. Closer inspection revealed the factory trigger to be more beneficial for two reasons: Additional surface area that comprises the face would create greater leverage and improve overall purchase when the trigger is pulled.

And considering that the J-frame family of revolvers utilizes a coiled hammer spring, which is much stiffer than the flat leaf springs found in Colts and larger Smith & Wesson K-frame wheelguns, the original trigger was better off unaltered,

In its current configuration, the wider trigger would lend itself better to shooting in double-action mode. Come to think of it, so would another product, but I'm getting ahead of myself.

Latest

CZ handgun selected by German Army
CZ handgun selected by German Army

CZ to Supply Pistols to the German Army

Germany's Bundeswehr will be equipped with CZ P-10 C OR pistols.

I Carry Spotlight: 2025 In Review

Here are the five most-popular "I Carry" videos from 2025.

First Look: Magpul Full-Size Grip for Ruger RXM Pistol

Magpul releases a full-size polymer grip for the Ruger RXM striker-fired 9 mm pistol.

First Look: Ruger Red Label III Shotgun

Ruger brings back a classic over/under shotgun in a new line.

First Look: Taurus Raging Hunter in 350 Legend

Taurus now offers a six-round, extra-large-frame revolver for the straight-walled 350 Legend cartridge.

Training: Consistency is Key

Repeatable, consistent waypoints in your shooting process are the path to success.

Interests



Get the best of Shooting Illustrated delivered to your inbox.